Music as a Political Mouthpiece

Part of the Humanities Cultural Programme, one of the founding stones for the
future  Stephen A. Schwarzman Centre for the Humanities

PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

For centuries, music and song has been used as a means of sharing political opinion; speaking out against injustice, raising awareness of the views and situations of marginalised peoples, and forming the nucleus of protests and marches at key points throughout history. What is it about this unique art form that has such power to make people listen to new points of view and rally to specific causes? How does this tradition manifest itself in the modern world?

Since it’s infancy in the late 1970s ghettos of New York, the genre of hip hop has amplified the voice of the neglected communities it sprouted from. As the genre spread across the globe to become one of the most dominant cultural forces of the 21st century, the political roots of the art form have remained a central part of the culture for large numbers of artists and fans all over the planet, for many, blurring the lines between artistry, activism and politics. Join this panel of hip hop artists, activists and scholars as they explore this rich subject matter. There will be an audience Q&A session after the discussion. 

PLEASE NOTE THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

Rawz 

Rawz has recently completed his tenure as Resident Sound Artist at St John’s College; one of the University of Oxford’s oldest colleges, and is currently involved in work around “decolonising” the University. From leaving school with no GCSEs, to becoming Resident Sound Artist at one of the world’s most prestigious learning institutions, Rawz’ story is one of extreme contrast, determination, and triumph against the odds. Themes that he expertly explores with his lyrics and Spoken Word. An experienced youth worker and teacher, Rawz set up The Urban Music Foundation in 2009, through which he delivers a wide range of creative learning activities in a variety of settings.